This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a real crowd-pleaser! It’s golden, crunchy, and packed with cheesy goodness. Perfect for dinner or a fun family meal!
You can whip this up quickly, and it’s so good that you’ll feel like a chef! I love serving it with a side salad or some roasted veggies—guilt-free and delicious! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work great too!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute for a sharper taste, or use pre-grated Parmesan in a pinch.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives that extra crunch! If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs; however, panko will create a better texture. Or make your own by processing stale bread.
Olive Oil vs. Butter: I like using olive oil for frying, but butter adds a lovely flavor. Don’t hesitate to use both for a flavorful fry!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
The key to achieving a crispy crust lies in the breading process. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Make sure to dry the chicken well before seasoning. This helps the coating stick better.
- When dipping the chicken, don’t rush! Let any excess egg wash drip off to avoid soggy breading.
- Press the breading firmly onto the chicken so it adheres well. A good coating will yield a nice crunch.
- Fry the chicken in hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This helps to keep the temperature consistent.
- Bake it afterward to ensure fully cooked chicken while keeping it crispy.
These simple techniques will help you achieve that irresistible crunch every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter (for frying)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 40 minutes, you can have a delicious, crispy chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, take a baking sheet and either grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Chicken
Next, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station
Get ready for some fun! Prepare three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Add the all-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs with a tablespoon of water.
- Bowl 3: Mix the grated Parmesan, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it.
4. Dredge the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour first, shaking off any excess. This will create a nice base for the egg wash.
5. Egg Dip
Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. It’s important not to have too much egg coating!
6. Coat with Breadcrumbs
Now, press the chicken into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to coat it thoroughly on all sides. This is what will give the chicken that delicious crispy crust!
7. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Wait until the oil is hot and shimmering before adding the chicken.
8. Fry the Chicken
Once the oil is ready, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and crispy.
9. Bake to Finish
Transfer the browned chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Then, pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Make sure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F/74°C).
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven. If you’d like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a tasty squeeze of citrus!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Parmesan crusted chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts with chicken thighs or turkey cutlets. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the meat.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Bread Crumbs?
No worries! You can use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko, but the texture may be slightly less crispy. Alternatively, you can make your own panko by processing stale bread in a food processor until coarse.
Can This Dish Be Made in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken up to the breading stage a few hours ahead. Just cover the breaded chicken and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. For best results, it’s recommended to bake immediately after frying to maintain that crispy crust.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep the coating crispy, or use the air fryer for a quick reheating!
